Thatcham Research has been at the forefront of vehicle security since the 1990s when it introduced the New Vehicle Security Assessment (NVSA) to address levels of vehicle crime and launched the Thatcham Categories for Alarm and Immobiliser systems that is now established as an industry benchmark.

However, in an ever-changing world, we need to ensure that our services, processes and procedures are reviewed and where required, adapted to meet the needs of insurance companies, customers and the buying public.

Following an increase in recent theft figures, and feedback from the automotive, plant, agricultural and insurance industries, we have reconsidered some aspects of our future operational plans for Thatcham Research’s aftermarket certification services. Our focus is to mitigate the potential risk of increasing insurance cost claims, as well as maintaining product quality in the market, and can now advise that:

1. Thatcham Research will continue with Electronic Alarm and Immobiliser Testing, for both OEM and Aftermarket products for all vehicle types. This includes, but not limited to, passenger cars, LCVs, motorcycles, plant, agricultural, motorhomes, caravans and HGV

2. Secondly, due to a change of emphasis within the industry, where a manufacturer’s certificate of fitment will now be accepted, there is no longer a need for the Thatcham Recognised Installer (TRI) Scheme. Therefore, we will be closing it from 31st December 2018.